Taylor expansion, of gradient of a function, in multiple dimensions

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The discussion centers on the Taylor expansion of a multidimensional function, specifically the expression for the gradient involving an integral term. Participants seek clarification on the multiplication involved in the gradient term, questioning whether it represents a dot product. The integral in the Taylor expansion is highlighted, with one user referencing a lecture slide for further understanding. Additionally, a connection to the Mean Value Theorem for vector-valued functions is made, suggesting that this concept may provide further insight. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for a clearer explanation of the mathematical derivation and its applications.
Whenry
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Hello all,

I understand that the taylor expansion for a multidimensional function can be written as

f(\overline{X} + \overline{P}) = f(\overline{X}) + \nabla f(\overline{X}+t\overline{P})(\overline{P})

where t is on (0,1).

Although I haven't seen that form before, it makes sense.

But I don't understand the integral in the following the Taylor expansion,

\nabla f(\overline{X} + \overline{P}) = \nabla f(\overline{X}) + \int^{1}_{0} \nabla^{2} f(\overline{X}+t\overline{P})(\overline{P})dt

Could someone help me understand the derivation?

Thank you,

Will
 
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Whenry said:
Hello all,

I understand that the taylor expansion for a multidimensional function can be written as

f(\overline{X} + \overline{P}) = f(\overline{X}) + \nabla f(\overline{X}+t\overline{P})(\overline{P})

where t is on (0,1).

I don't understand it. What kind of multiplication is going on in the last term? It appears to be two vectors multiplied together. Is it a dot product?


But I don't understand the integral in the following the Taylor expansion,

\nabla f(\overline{X} + \overline{P}) = \nabla f(\overline{X}) + \int^{1}_{0} \nabla^{2} f(\overline{X}+t\overline{P})(\overline{P})dt

I don't either, but this is an interesting formula and I would like to know where you saw it. Is this from a subject like fluid dynamics? Can you give a link to a page?
 

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